2019 Jeep Cherokee

The current generation of the Jeep Cherokee was released in 2014 meaning it is time it got a mid-cycle refresh. Although many criticized the model’s exterior design, particularly the front end, terming it ugly, the Cherokee has posted impressive sales and the automaker does not see the need to alter the model’s design significantly. The automaker released teaser images of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee ahead of its official showcase during the upcoming Detroit Motor Show.

2019 Jeep Cherokee Exterior

Jeep has not divulged much information about the upcoming Cherokee as a more comprehensive reveal is set for the 2018 Detroit Motor Show. The automaker has only released some images of the model. From the released images, the Cherokee looks to have received a significant makeover which the model really needed. At the front, Cherokee designers have opted for a conservative design of the headlights with all units (main projectors, LED DRLs and turn signals) encased in one housing, unlike the current model where each unit has a separate housing. The fog lights have also been revised (they have a bigger surround) which has improved the model’s conventional look. The kinked-up design of the lower grille is gone; in its place are more stylish horizontal lines. To my surprise, the upper grille has however carried over without any changes despite it being the major talking point of the model’s critics.

At the rear, the license plate has been moved to the tailgate. The bumper has also been reworked; it now features a chrome trim as well as colored plastics. The bumper also holds a chromed exhaust tip. The LED taillights now have clear lenses while turn signals are colored in white. The running lights, as well as brake lights, also feature LED lighting. The flanks are unchanged which is usual considering that this is a mid-cycle refresh which largely focuses on upgrades to the front and rear fascias.

Interior

The interior of the Cherokee is very functional; the automaker has revealed that the cabin will remain unchanged. The cabin features a huge TFT display mounted on the gauge cluster. The model’s steering wheels have logical controls for easy control of the vehicle. Jeep has also featured a dual-zone climate control system as well as the impressive FCA’s 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system. The Cherokee also features AUX, USB and Bluetooth connectivity for easier music streaming. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also featured which allow full Smartphone connectivity.

The Cherokee accommodates 5 passengers. The front seats of the model are heated and ventilated on top trims. The Cherokee has 25 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seat which expands to 55 cubic feet after folding the 60/40 split-folding rear seat.

Engine and Performance

In terms of engines that will power the Cherokee, Jeep has only revealed that the model will have more fuel-efficient engines. Going with this vague message, my best bet would be the new 2.0 L, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that powers the Wrangler JL. The 2.0 L, V-6 is rated at 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The engine has a mild hybrid system that enhances its fuel economy. The fuel economy of the engine is yet to be released even for the Wrangler but expect the mill to be better than the current 3.2 L, V-6 that returns 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on highway drives.

The 2.4 L, Tigershark MultiAir 4-cylinder will likely be retained. The naturally aspirated engine is rated at 184 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque. The engine is very economical with a rating of 21 mpg in city and 30 mpg on highway drives. In terms of towing, the 2.0 L, will likely match the current 3.2 L, V-6, capacity of 4,500 lbs when equipped with a Trailer Tow package and 2000 lbs without the package. The 2.4 L, mill, on the other hand, tows a maximum of 2,000 lbs.

Price and release date

Jeep did not announce the prices of the 2019 Jeep Cherokee but I anticipate the automaker to do so when the model makes its official public appearance at Detroit Auto Show later this month. The price will not change much from that of the current model which starts at $24,395 for the front-wheel-drive Latitude trim. AWD models attract extra cash. The model will likely go on sale in the second quarter of this year.

We will post additional information and pictures as soon as they are available.